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Aaron Jones

Paradise

I have full many a road walked in these clothes,
have soiled them with sweat in every season,
have worn them through the times. I have betrothed
my heart to warbling winds without a reason,
although against my age this may be treason,
and I have lived a life of love,
no matter how the night may sigh, nor cry the dove.

Sweet, many-faceted love shone down on me,
as might a young shrub shimmer at its burning,
and took upon itself simplicity,
that its illustrious form might fill my yearning…
the world is cruel, and never ceases turning,
and after menacing to die,
a man may learn to love the saber at his side.

I shuddered when the judging rains poured down
and forced away the land's distinguished features
beyond all clouded light and worldly sound.
I huddled with a host of earthly creatures,
for pain and fear are harsh and pointed teachers.
But, at long last, the waters fell
and Eden called to me through dark and stewing hells.

For forty years the sand has struck my cheek,
and tortured me with pestilential flies,
and burnt and broken me. Yes, it is bleak,
but just beyond these plains, the garden lies—
Yet, when I wished to see your auburn eyes,
I brushed aside the daydreams of your hair
and looked within…was paradise not sleeping there?

-X2A